Although they're playing the champs on their home-court, I'm going to deliver to you why, despite facing elimination, I think the Suns are going to pull out Game 5.
Diaw might end up being the key to Game 5.
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images
1. Hot Hands: The Suns players are hot. In the first three games of the series, the usual suspects, Amaré Stoudemire, Steve Nash and Shaquille O’Neal all were able to contribute offensively, while some of the other players didn’t produce as much as expected. However, going into Game 5, Gordan Giricek is in rhythm, Boris Diaw is hot, Leandro Barbosa is still feeling good from Game 3 and Raja Bell is en fuego. Shooters thrive on confidence, and they all should have a decent amount heading into the AT&T Center.
2. STAT Attack: The team’s leading scorer, Amaré Stoudemire, only scored seven points in Game 4 and the Suns still blew the Spurs out. That is an ominous sign for San Antonio because STAT rarely has two poor shooting games in a row. With everyone coming into the game on fire and STAT due to erupt, the Suns could score 120 points.
3. Keep It Down Low: With Boris starting at the 3, the Suns recognize the mismatch he has in the post on smaller players such as Manu Ginobili and Michael Finley. Diaw makes the Spurs pay with his repertoire of moves down on the blocks. And when they decide to double-team him, he is such an adept passer that he’ll find the open man and help someone, let’s just say Raja, score 27 points on open looks.
4. Barkley’s Blessing: TNT analyst Charles Barkley said on ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption” on Monday that the Suns were the team most likely to make a comeback in the playoffs. Sir Charles, who never gives credit where it isn’t due, said that the Suns didn’t show any quit in them and for that reason, he could see them making a run at the Spurs.
5. Put the D in 3D: With Diaw being able to stay close on Spurs guard Tony Parker, it seems that the Suns have found a possible solution to San Antonio’s pick-and-roll game. Diaw has the length to bother Parker’s shots, as well as the quickness to stay in front of him. In addition, the activity of Phoenix’s big men have allowed them to step out on the screen and make the Spurs’ perimeter players think twice about whether or not they have enough room to shoot the mid-range jumper.
6. Wounded-Animal Syndrome: Growing up as kids, if you ever went camping or on a field trip into the mountains, adults would always tell you to be aware if you came across a “wounded animal,” because they were always the most dangerous. Phoenix has to be the aggressor every game because they are just one loss away from vacationing in Barbados. The Suns are “wounded,” whereas San Antonio is still in the driver’s seat. That means that the Suns can jump on the Spurs early and put the pressure on them to fight back.
7. Winning in Any Language: Despite being up by over 20 points late in the game, Shaq reacted negatively to the Spurs’ center Fabricio Oberto when the two became a little entangled with each other. After jawing at him a little bit, the media asked Shaq what he said to Oberto. O’Neal replied, “I just spoke to him in his own language.” When the media asked what language that was, Shaq responded, “Vulgar ebonics.” That exchange should let the Spurs know that there is still a lot of pride and a lot of fight left in the Suns, and they want to make this interesting.
8. Law of Averages: With the Suns garnering two victories over the Spurs on their home-court this season, and just falling short of grabbing another W in Game 1, the Suns are due for some road magic. It’s almost scientific. Einstein believed that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction and that over time, everything would return to its average. With these two teams being as evenly matched as they have been for so long, one would have to reason that the Suns would have to even out their record in this series a bit more. The Spurs have one blowout and two close victories. The Suns have one blowout… so if Einstein was creating a formula for this game, he would probably state that the Suns would win in a nail-biter…
9. A New Creator: Although Suns fans are accustomed to the high-wire attack with Nash at the helm, Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich has been determined to limit the effect that the two-time MVP has on the game. By placing Bruce Bowen on Nash and attempting to take away his passing lanes, it has hindered Nash’s ability to get his teammates into the flow of the game. But with Diaw at the small forward, there is another player that the Suns can facilitate their offense through. Besides Nash, he is the best player on the Suns for getting other players involved. Shaq, STAT, LB and Raja are all finishers, but they aren’t known for their ability to create for other players. Diaw, on the other hand, had four triple-doubles in one year a couple of seasons ago. So instead of putting all of the pressure on Nash to begin the offense, the Suns can look to Diaw to give them an advantage early in the shot clock.
10. Winning Taste: Not only was taking Game 4 vital for getting that winning feeling back, but it was even more important that the Suns routed the Spurs. Going into Game 5, they are not only confident that they can defeat the world champs, but that they can blow them out. Having that feeling fresh in their minds is something that Suns can return to when the Spurs make a run. It is no longer a theory that they can run them out of the building, it is a fact…
Comments
jordan - phil
suns is playing good when hill is out and diaw starts
jayton - az
i think we going to win!!!!!!!! play hard aggresive
Lucy Van Ness - Flagstaff
I would love to see the suns beat san antonio! it would not only show that we've got skills but that we've got heart too.
John S. - Surprise AZ
Never wanted it this bad. Just to see the expressions on the Spurs players and fans faces should we take game 5 would be priceless. You gave the ten reasons we "could" win game five, now the one reason that must be overcome to do so. Inconsistency: The Suns have historically been up and down more than a kid on a pogo stick. This team has always had trouble putting two great games together, and it will take that to win this one. The line has been drawn in the sand, are we "good enough" or not?
Nathan Wright - Arizona
Amen! Its the inevitable. Its 3 more games. we can easly pull this off. you want to know why? cause its our turn.
Dallin Lunt - Aizona
I think the suns can still do this thing even tho that they are down three games to one. Remeber when the suns where down three games to one against the lakers, they came back and made an awsome comeback. Rick Kamla dosent know what he is talking about when he says the suns cant do this its impossible but in the suns fans hearts and minds the suns can still do this thing and they will do this thing.
They will win a CHAMPIONSHIP!
Rick kamla
YENG - Phils.
whoooaahh!!! I've been always so nervous about this game.. being a Suns fan, I came to a moment that I lost hope for my team at the the time the series was 3-0.. I am always thinking and they have the capability to sweep the Spurs they just didn't sticked on their punisher plays. I wish this GAME 5 trough GAME 7 that all the components of the Suns' nucleus shall all react and be aggressive quarter by quarter to give off the super mega intense heat needed to burn and melt these SPURS for the SUNS way to be smoothened for the FINALS.
Shaq4ever - L.A.
I know that the suns can come back and blowout the spurs because if an of you remember, in the playoff game with barkley we were losing badly but came back up, but them loss. This year we are stromger with THE BIG CACTUS, which helps alot if you notice. GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
anonymous - Ontario
Let's do this Suns!
Chris - Fonatana, CA
The NBA has to make history at some point and what better than the suns to be the first team to come back from 3 games down in the playoffs and win. I have a good feeling about this suns fans.
terry herbert - long beach ms
suns most definiately have the ability to do this thing! i was a little down on hope after watching game 3 but i looked at the factors and im confident! suns deserve a championship more than any other team in the nba in my opinion. they always have been right there at the finish line but fall short. this team has too much talent and fight in them to go out like that. history will be made!
Daniel - Redmond (born in phoenix)
this is all very true! i have always believed in this team and still believe that they will make history and beat the spurs 4-3! if i were a spurs fan i would be very afraid right about now!!
Macca - Melbourne Australia
Go Suns, This is the make or Break Game. If Shaq can hit the free throws we will be back in the hunt. Maybe start GG instead of Nash to confuse their match ups
Jason-Phoenix -
THOSE ARE VERY GOOD POINTS
"WE BELIEVE"
brian - manila
True, all the role players should step up for the suns to win the title. i still believe they can win this round. God bless to the players!
Jerome Huffman - Birmingham, Alabama
I agree also, that the sun's can win gm 5 and possible the series.if they play like they did in game 5, they should be up 3 to 1 instead of the spurs.
yeahboy - philippines
yeah i think the suns will win game 5.. hell i think they will win in all this year even if the spurs have a 3-1 advantage i think phoenix will be like the superman team in the nba believe me people.. hornets will be down next round at six games.. lakers will be eliminated by the suns at the conference finals at 6 games.. anyone for suns and cavs in the finals?i dont think boston and detroit has shown why they are the elite team at the east... so suns
Devo - Paradise Valley
Are we really placing all our hopes and dreams on Boris Diaw?? I hope he comes through but we are talking about Boris.......
Rob - Phoenix
It's up to either Boris or Doris. Which Diaw will show up for the rest of the series. If Boris comes to play aggresive and Bell doesn't revert to bricklaying the Suns have a chance. If Doris shows up - forget it. Our main 3 still need to produce like they have been. The play of Bell, Barbosa and Diaw is crucial. The rest of the bench is full of players that don't really know what their roles are. They haven't been given enough time or attention to ingratiate themselves into the mix. Boris is the wild card, Bell and Leandro need to provide dependable play as well. Being a realist, I realize the daunting task facing this team. Being a Suns fan, I say git 'er done and make history - or you are history.
Lauren Guck - Perham, Minnesota
I think that the suns have a great chance to beat the spurs tomorrow night. That would be so cool if the suns made history by winning the series.
ryan ortega - philippines
i think the spurs intended to lose that game 4 so that they can finish off the suns in san antonio's homecourt in game 5..
that's how i see it...
Carlos - Glendale
Let's See the Suns make History!
Aaron Knotts - Prescott Valley
yes I believe that the Suns can come back to win the finals. Its time for Pheonix to rise from the ashes.
andrew - las vegas
are you serious...
those are your reasons...
give me ONE good reason the suns will make it past the first round.There is NO WAY!
shane levinson - Benson AZ
I love the enthusiasm and I love the fact that Barkley finally gave them some slack, but i am a die hard fan and really dont see them winning this. I am sorry, I would be as excited as anyone if we end up winning and i still think the suns are the best team to come from behind and win, but San Antonio is not a team that will lose two in a row, let alone four. Im calling the suns out, but lets hope that im wrong.
danell castanares - iligan city, philippines
the only team and perhaps the only team to be down 0-3 in a series and win it all the way to the larry o' brian trophy!!!!
Go Suns..Go Suns..Go Suns...Go Suns!!!!
d davis -
great take. i'm in agreement.
Gerald - Pasay,Philippines
I say Amen to that brother!! I still believe Suns is better than Spurs.
kevin - Philippines
GO SUNS!!!!! STOP THE CURSE
Jon - Phoenix
Lord, let you be correct on all accounts. Go SUNS!!
Raymond - Albuquerque, NM
I think we should have a lot of heart to win Game 5 tomorrow night. We should have a lot of heart to come back and win this series.
what will it take to win? - WE NEED TO WIN..PERIOD
Dont count out the champions yet. the odds are heavily favoring santonio to kill suns in the 5th. could be a close game but a kill.
LAST YR WAT I MOST LIKED ABOUT SUNS SPURS SEMIFINAL(ACTUAL FINAL) MATCHUP WAS THAT THEY LOCKED HORNS PERFECTLY...EACH GAME WAS WELL FOUGHT AND ONE TEAM WON CLOSE GAME AND OTHER FOLLOWED SUIT.
THIS TIME SUNS HAVENT WON A CLOSE GAME AND SPURS HAVE WON 2. WE NEED TO ATLEAST WIN ONE CLOSE ONE IN SANTONIO AND THEN HOPEFULLY IF WE ARE BACK IN GAME 6AT HOME...MAYBE THAT ONE TOO...
BUT ITS TOO EARLY FOR THAT.
ONE THING IS CERTAIN...NO GAME WILL BE LIKE 3 OR 4. SANTONIO WILL GO FOR THE KILL AND NOT LAYDOWN THEIR BIGGIES EVEN IF ITS A 30 PT LEAD FOR SUNS
AND AGAIN I DONT BELIEVE SUNS CAN DO WHAT THEY DID IN GAME 5...
ALL THE GUYS HAVE TO BE FIREPOWERED (EN FUEGO) 5TIMES OVER AND HOT FROM THE WORD GO AND JUST LIKE SHAQ.....BE AT THE THROAT OF THE ENEMY...
IF WE GO TO GAME 7, SUNS HAVE VINDICATED THEMSELVES FOR THE GAME 1 LOSS.
I GUESS SUNS GAVE AWAY GAME 1. SPURS DIDNT WIN IT.
ON MANY MANY MANY OCASSIONS WE HAD GAME 1....THINK THAT IN UR HEART
AND GO OUT AND PERFORM.... WE NEVER KNOW WHAT CAN HAPPEN.... BUT EVERY WIN WE GARNER....WE ARE SO MUCH MORE CLOSE TO THE DREAM
U R FACING A DEAD PROFESSIONAL TEAM WITH A DEADLY DEFENSE WHICH CAN SCORE FAST POINTS TOO....
THAT IS RARE IN NBA. NO CELTICS NO PISTONS ARE ABLE TO DO THAT...ITS ONLY THE SPURRRS
PLUS THAT UGLY COACH I JUST HATE HIM..I CANT THINK OF BETTER WORDS FOR POP..BUT ALL THE SAME HE KNOWS WHEN TO SWITCH ON..
LETS PRAY WE DO FEWEST OF MISTAKES IN GAME 5... BECAUSE THAT WILL BE DANGEROUS FOR SPURS.. THEY DONN WANNA LOOSE AT HOME....
Ertunç Hünkar - TURKEY/Izmir
I'm agreed with top ten reasons to win this game we belive in suns and if there is a team have a miracle that come back from 3-0,that team is exactly SUNS good luck suns lets get this serie,lets make a history
LETS GO SUNS
marz - glendale,phoenix
I still have high hopes for the Phoenix Suns that they will win Game 5 and bring Game 6 back in Phoenix.Its all about heart,passion,and mental game.I know that the new Suns team was build up to defeat the Spurs , Now is the oppurtunity to take advantage of a given situation.GO SUNS!!!!!
what will it take to win? - GO SUNS GO!!!
WE CAN WIN GAME 5...ITS CERTAINLY NOT IMPOSSIBLE. COME ON GUYS....
REVENGE OF GAME 1...PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
Nathan - Gilbert, AZ
This should restore some confidence within the fans!!
4 game STREAK! Here we go! 1 down, 3 to go!!!
john seno - philippines
there gonna win it because shaq is ready to block some shots and amare is also gonna attack the rim with steve nash plenty of alley oops
Billy - Philippines
I would to comment on these 10 things about the Suns win win Gm. 5. I could say that Boris must continue his work in defense on his buddy, T.P. and Raja must make more and more shots especially on the outside. But I will advise them not to take so many shots from the outside because we all know that it will not go in sometimes. I mean that they must attack the defense of the Spurs. We all know that they are a good defensive team and also champions. But there is a weakness and that is creating mismatches especially for the big men like Shaq, STAT and 3D because the can get some points if their opponents are smaller that them. Another thing is they must control the tempo of the game from start to finish because if they will make mistakes in the 2nd half, they will lose. We all know that no team has done so far of beating a team 4 times after losing the first 3 but we think they have a good fight against them although they will do it on the road. They must remember that reason they got "The Diesel" is to make pressure on "The Big Fundamental". It's because if we pressured him, it will affect to his teammates esp. Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. That's all. Go!Suns!Go!
Andres Felipe - New York
My opinion is that suns are going 2 game seven i am a big fan off all suns players and i believe in them . the coach is doing a good job so i believe in suns . lets go suns
Cem - Turkey
It'll be hard to beat the champs at their homecourt but with shaq and co. not impossible,i'll pray for the win.
ramielle - philippines
i'll bet my life if the suns still come back in the series...
-
suns will win... spurs will be going down. it will be a history in nba.
Joshua Alirkar - Alaska
Woo! Man I can't wait for game 5!!!!! I got hyped up from this blog, I think I'm burning out though because I'm tired. Bleh!
GO SUNS!!! GO BORISteve Nash!
Madz Victor - Manila, Philippines
I think the number one reason why Suns will win Game 5 is that "BECAUSE THEY WANT TO WIN THE 2008 NBA CROWN!" In addition, my number 12 reason is, the Suns will win because we, the million fans of Shaq, want to watch the possible showdown between SHAQ and Kobe in the Conference Finals.
Darren - Australia
I agree 100% with all of these points. Most Spurs supporters are just taking the "Coming back 0-3 has never been done". Look at the Boston Redsocks. I just think they're sticking to this theory cause they are worried they WILL lose. If any team can come back 0-3 in the NBA it is the Suns. I'm not just saying that cause I'm a Suns fan. I'm saying this because they are one of the elite teams if not the best in the league. With a Hall of Fame Centre, soon to be hall of famers in Stoudemire (MVP Next year) and Nash. Not saying the rest of the team isn't great cause they are. They also have more depth in there bench then most teams. Giricek, LB and Diaw coming from the bench what else can you say?
suns - philippines
go suns! im a big fan of your team! just win game 5 and you have a big chance to win the series! give the ball to amare he will crash the whole spurs!when they double amare kick it out to raja and steve!
Mark -
I Believed you can win Game 5
Rourke - hazle park MI
the sun can out score the spurs
Bartolome - albuquerque
While I also want to Suns to win, your ten reason made no basketball sense at all. If Diaw, Bell, and Barbosa can each score 15+, we'll win the game.
tim - san antonio
bring it on!
Jendrik - Germany
Shaq will have a great time he can rebound and score a lot of points. You saw that in 2000
Sean - Rio de Janeiro
Calm down! I believe this team can win the series and the championship, but only if they have focus, pride, fight, desire, will, ... It is still necessary to get 3 consecutive wins over an excellent team and an excellent coach. The Spur did not practice before game 4. Their players are rested. They are still one win of next round. They are still the team to beat... The Suns still have to prove they can keep focus and fight every game the whole game.
joseph alas - phil
that is totally right but even with the kicker bruce bowen on nash, steve could just pull out some pick and roles like tony parker
Mike Johnson - Phoenix
great reasons , the suns are certaintly going to crush the spurs in game 5. These reasons give me more confidence that the suns can still come back and win the series
kristel velasquez - philippines
i hope we could win =D FIGHT
royce - phillipines
yes the suns will win this..spurs are dirty players thwy always hurt or insult other teams its time for them to get scorched
karoynn - evanston,il
hellllllllll yeaaaaaahhhhhh.. they can do this ... the suns is the only nba team that has beat the spurs TWICE at home...they an do this they have everyhthing they need!
nick weston - hueytown alabama
All the host on sportcenter can tald about is that no team can come back from losing 3 in a row in the playoffs. well u know wat the suns are about to break that streak and kick some spurs but today. GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!
yanitza - PHOENIX
This is so so good....keep it up suns...
Antoinette Silago - Phoenix, AZ
We believe in you!! Go Suns!! Take Game 5 and bring it back here... We love you!!!
medula oblongata - if.id.
i have hope & faith that we can do this! lets do this!!
Gary - Glendale
My prediction for tonights game is:
Phoenix Suns 118
San Antonio Spurs 102
Stat 33 points
Raja 22 points
Leandro 25 points
Diaw 10 points 8 rebounds 11 assits
Nash 14 assists 6 rebounds 9 points
Bertrand - FRANCE
Key is Boris against his good friend Tony !
ali - arizona
I agree with everything it says up there.^
Chris A 'FISHDO' Benson - Phoenix
Two words will say it all:
NASHKETBALL, a specialized form of basketball that the two-time MVP has perfected.
STATASHAQATTACK, what happens when two of the best players of the game get together.
Ahsan Siddiqui - Justin,TX
Where Amazing Happens !
suns fan - planet orange
hey i believe i mean who freakin cares its never been done in history
suns rock and i see a cup standing in planet orange in july 2008
RAINEY - NEW MEXICO
THEY NEED DEFENSE!!!!! AND DETERMINATION
ben awlis - korea
if the suns can win this series i will jump on a plane
Kenny - Phoenix
Lets not be overconfident and go into the game like we have our backs against the wall. We have to fight our way out of it. These are all great points but this season our Suns have shown that they can and do allow emotional let downs in 'Key' moments. Lets remember that, recognize when it's starting to happen, and prevent it from happening.
Stephen - Philippines
Phoenix Suns: where "we believe!" happens! Go Phoenix!
eddie - dallas
one victory does not mean nothing in a series. if anyone remember that in 1992 the cavaliers destroyed the bulls by 26 points in game one and thought they won the series only to lose in six games. the suns need to do one quarter at a time, one half at a time and one game at a time. the suns can do this but until the clock shows zero in game seven along with the victory then we can do all this analyzing how the spurs blew the series.
Chris - Elsah, IL
Please, please, please be the Suns that showed up for Game 4 tonight and not the shell-shocked Suns from game 3. If they do this they can win in SA, if they don't bring some fire to the court the reigning champions will crush them.
keith - phillipines
the only thing that you will surely win is pray hard to the Lord... Do your best and God will do the rest!!! God bless you SUNS!!!
keith - phillipines
The spurs will surely shut Diaw... thats why its so hard to beat the defending champions... if you will win the series, you will have a big shot at the finals.... GOOD LUCK GUYS!
Juan (Armasis) - Puerto Rico
Suns will just go forward. They just need 7 seconds to score. They have Mvp's Players and not only that, have you seen O'neal and Amare blocks? just awsome! and now they go to game 5, now they are hot and now they know spurs strategic and mike has teach them some offensive-killer-moves to sun and so, have you seen Nash quickness, I think he's the much quick and point guard of the league so Hello! the SUNs just will Shine this year playoff and if not they'll do for next year cuz even now shaq it's a rookie IN this team and when he get's fit he will just kill and having Nash wow awsome so Suns will do!!!
Tara - Ireland
LOVE THE BLOG..nice job...ic ant wait..really hope we do it cuz i kno we can and deserve to =D
LETS GOOOO PHOEINIX ! !
Scott - Scottsdale
suns rock!!!! 11. the spurs played like they were Horry last game if they do that again they might as well forfiet.
Jay - Austria/Vienna
yeah!!
couldn´t say it any better!
love you tuns, go suns!
troyd - virgina
the suns will come back and win the series i believe in them ps troyd
Ignacio Santana - Mesa,Az
Like i said in the past comment about the suns being able to beat the spurs I know they can do it its just a matter if they bring in the heat and play like the did on sunday with that spark. When the suns play like this i really dont think any team in the nba can beat them. The suns have to get this win tonight and bring it back to phoenix. Lets go suns all the way oh and another thing for being the defending champs the spurs complain about everything and when they start losing they play so dirty and they get alway with so much. This is the nash era its time to make history and come back to win the series!!!!!!!!
Eddie Garcia - Phoenix, AZ
i know that game one loss was a blow to the chest and game two was a blow to the jaw game three the team was hurt but soon came back going into game four with the one thing they had left, heart. now its all aroung that san antonio gave the suns that game because they would much rather win at san antonio, we all they're all shakin up walking into today's game. i have confidence in my team, so what if no team has came back from a 3-0 deficit, none of those teams had Stat, Nash, Shaq, LB, Raja,Diaw, and etc. but most importantly had Mike Dantoni. a coach of the year. with all of phoenix and arizona behind the suns, there isn't no way no duncan how that the suns can lose tonight. the gorrilla will stay alive tonight at san antonio.
G.JONES - NS,CANADA
YUP !
Cristina - Mexico
I definitely think and KNOW that Suns are winning this and the rest
I can see them in the west finals, vs Lakers...
in that game, we will see why Phx acquired Shaq...
Slavco - macedonia skopje
j have read a briliant stats for the suns and the game 4 was very hot for the suns and j think that game 5 will be same win for suns.J hope that there will be 7 games beetwn this 2 teams and the suns can make history win in game 7
Bryce Rainwater - Seattle,WA
i can digg it....
Doug - Scottsdale
4 straght baby!!
Andrew Broadman - Phoenix
you forgot on thing:
the best reason for the suns to make the comeback is simple. if the Suns can continue to push this series the Suns energy imporves and the Spurs loose it. thats why this game is the most important of them all. Game five can put the Suns in the most historic spot of all professional sports to date and that is a total come back. the Spurs need desperatly to win tonight, there players need a rest, they have some minor injuries and need the time to rest. so the Spurs will put it all on the court tonight to finsh and this is why Coach D must play even the deep bench like D.J. and Markus. right now 7 Suns against 10 spurs is not good when the Spurs are in reality the ones that must win more then us.
so the things you forgot
1) Suns must adjust at times and through a player that usualy is not in the game at the spurs and even hack Parker or Duncan just to get under there skin, they will get inretate quickly if the Suns do this because they think there the only ones aloud to that. if we dont then the Spurs can and will win.
2) Energy, the longer the Suns can keep the Spurs starters on the Court and not allow thespurs to reotate there bench to much the better off the Suns are.
actualy there is a 3)
Parker was frustrated in game 4 -- keep him that way and a great way to do that is through a player you dont need at him like D.J. or Piatkowski . loosing them to foul trouble is no big deal. but making parker pissed is and that is what the suns need to do tonight to win.
I know that most of these comments are deleted but this you might want to send to Coach D because this is THE GAME
kris koleman - jonesboro, Arkansas
the key two winning game five is play with heart and never give up. Give the ball to stoudemire and let him go with it because he is and unstoppable player.One more thing is Run suns use to get about forty fast break points and in the playoff they average about 25 they need more
I BELIEVE THEY CAN MAKE IT.
Nick Bates - Gilbert, AZ
I think that there are two keys to this game tonight, second chance points (getting and stopping), and forcing the spurs to take bad shots. Shaq, Amare, and Diaw have to control the offensive, and defensive glass. They can't let Oberto get easy rebounds and layups. The defense needs to screw up Parker and Ginobili's shots by solid D, and getting a hand in their faces. By doing these two things, you can expect a game 6 in Phoenix. GO SUNS!!!
kris koleman - jonesboro, Arkansas
i watch the suns play every time and they need to RUN RUN RUN.They are and fast break team and they need to start back doing what they need in the season
Domnique Begay - Tuba City AZ
I Believe the suns can win.
SGT C - Albuquerque, N.M.
I believe
luxio - Wuxi,Jiangsu,China
Come on SUN!!! Never give up ,I believe you can do!!!
saulobzzy - phoenix
The suns are quicker younger and better!!! i have the suns in game 5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Eric P. Perpetua - Cebu, Philippines
I hope this reasons will come true not only in Game 5 but also to the remainging games of the series...PHOENIX SUNS have a very, very, very, very GOD and good luck!!! God Bless!!!
Fan of Amare,
Marcus Gallegos - Montana
Lets' Go SUNS!! I believe in Boris Diaw!1
Time to make history.
Jessica - Flagstaff, AZ
who cares if no team has ever come back from being down 3 game to none. if any team can come back it the suns. go suns!!!
Jessy - San Pedro,California
No one has ever came back from a 3-0 start but if The Suns come together as a team no matter who they play they can beat them even if its 4 times in a row but only if they play their hearts out and dont give up but nobody beleives that they could become the first team to come back after a 3-0 start but hey remember the Patriots nobody thought they could be beaten well u know rest haha Its gonna be a Pretty cool Game !
Chriss - Edmonton, Canada
Just because it hasn't been done, doesn't mean it can't be done!! Go Suns!!
Mike Prosek -
I'm from Phoenix but I go to college in San Antonio and I've been wearing my Nash Jersey since Day 1 baby LETS WIN THIS AND SHOW SAN ANTONIO WHATS UP!!!!!! GO SUNS!!!!
Romain - Belgium
Please Suns Win !!!
It's A Revenge Of The Game 5
Nash Is The Best Point Guard Of The Nba !!!
He's Going To Win His First Nba Playoff
Let's Go Suns !!!
cruz padilla - phx
i think the suns are going to makr history and i hop they win in game 5. in i likr how the suns played in gamr 4.
Justin P - Edmonton
Come on boys you can do it and bell keep shoting that 3 ball all day
Jorge - New York
Lets go Suns!!!!Ya could make history and win the NBA Title!!!!!!!!
Michael Jaycox - Glendale, Arizona
The Suns need to approach this dilema one game at a time. They are a very talented team that will not quit. If Diaw plays aggressive as in Game 4, they will have a great chance to win. I believe in the Suns!!! This is Our Time to Rise to the TOP... Lets Go SUNS...
Mago - Phillipines
Go SUNS
LIGHTEN UP THE FIRE!!! AND LET THE GAME BEGIN!!!
-
SUNS WIN SERIES 3 MORE GAMES!
Casey - San Diego
the suns are amazing and are going to OWN san antonio tonight to make history and put the spurs back where they belong!!!!!
yeahboy - az
Just got to believe, one game at a time for Phoenix. Suns do have more cards in their hands than most team out in the NBA.
Raul - Scottsdale, AZ
Diaw always has an amazing game when he starts in place of Hill, I've always felt that Hill should be coming off the bench!!!
Rick - Virginia
When the Giants started the playoffs, everyone gave them no chance, and they won four in a row for the Super Bowl title! If the Suns can win tonight - and they have the hot hand - we can take game 6 in Phoenix, and then steal it away in Texas. After that, it will be the Boston Red Sox syndrome.........the Suns plow their way to the title!
Wes Colbert - Lincoln, Nebraska
Go Suns! This could be the 1st time any NBA team has come back from a 3-0 deficit! This is the first time the Suns win a Championship! We believe! Eyes on the Prize Baby!
carter - cedar rapids iowa (formerly phoenix)
There is no doubt that this team has what it takes to make miracles happen, GO SUNS!
Mac - San Antonio
While appreciate all the comments by the fans, I must say that all of you are as delusional as your head coach. Spurs win game 5, go on and repeat as champs. period. You guys have NO SHOT at winning on our court, and will go to a familiar place for ya'll- an early vacation.
AshleyElizabeth - Cape Breton, NS Canada
Ive been waiting so long to brag to my friends at school that the suns are the team to watch out for. They got more then enough skill to beat any team. They just need to put it together and finally pull through. I think it is time for this to happen. This win is well over due and it is time noww! I love the suns and its time, c'mon boys! Take er home! You got the fans, you got the skills, you got the heart, now lets go get the championship. EH?! LETS GO SUNS!
Mitch Beltran - Chino, CA
Praying for you guys! It's our turn to shine! GO SUNS!
lil one - Vi-Lu
We can only pray and hope that they win it all
bereczla - Hungary
Let's go suns, you can do this!!
Sandie - San Antonio
You have got to be kidding me!! That is so sweet how the suns fans have all of that enthusiasm, determination, rah rah my team is the best... But the reality is that the suns have to win THREE in a row to move on to the next round. Period. There is no way that will happen no matter how hard the fans squeeze their eyes shut, cross their fingers, click their magic ruby slippers together and chant their magic words. It ain't gonna happen! The SPURS are the defending WORLD CHAMPIONS and will not be eliminated by the suns. The SPURS are playing a cat and mouse game with the suns because they know how much shaq enjoys loosing in the AT&T center before he starts his early summer vacation. Better luck in your first round draw next year suns!
Matt - Canada
Crash the boards on both ends.
Dunk on them fiercly Shaq! I want to see you dunk on someones head so hard the ball ends up in the upper seats!
Ndomupei - Surpise, AZ
They can do it! Go suns! I think they'll take it all the way this time...there's a first time for everything.
Anthony Caglio - Phoenix
Game 5 is going to create the biggest impact in series. I can't wait to see Shaq do his trademark sprint after a punishing dunk that ignited the Suns in game 4.
Sandy - Gilbert, Arizona
SUNS bring it!!!!! 150 % all the way. Its all about heart and I believe in you 100%. Also I think Steve Nash is going to rip the net up with 3 pointers tonight. Don't ever underestimate a man with that much heart and soul.
Rachel - Tennessee
Not that I wasn't optimistic before, but this is just the icing on the cake.
Fantastic List!!!
Go SUNS!
Amani - Phoenix, AZ
Yes, i knw we'll do it tonight
Jen - Arizona
Don't be afraid to give strawberry a chance to play some of his in your face defense on tony parker either. Strawberry is more athletic and quicker and can also bother parker if diaw needs resting!
PAUL WILSON - TWIN FALLS IDAHO
Suns start 1st quarter with fast pace and double digit lead. keep the pressure on the spurs the whole game
kevin - ARIZONA
It IS time to make history. with all this faith who could not believe. GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Spurs Fan - San Antonio
I'm not going to steal anyone's thunder. Just consider what I have to say.
A) I don't doubt the Suns ability to win game 5. However, I have some doubt about their ability to win the series. Don't get me wrong, the Suns are one of my top 5 favorite teams in the NBA, and my 2nd favorite in the West. I just don't think that this "Law of Averages" is a reasonable argument; mostly because Einstein doesn't know a haypenny from a basketball. This is all besides the fact that it was Sir Issac Newton's 1st Law which states the "Law of Equilibrium." Newton was talking about objects with certain masses giving off certain forces.
B) I don't understand the grudges against Bruce Bowen (especially) and Robert Horry enitrely. OK, Rob basically sent Steve Nash flying a year ago. But honestly when you take someone that runs as fast as Steve at his height and weight and have something at Robert's height and weight on the recieving end... let's just say that there's your "Law of Averages." Bruce Bowen doesn't make any sense at all. You people have to have met the guy in person. He has the greatest attitude about his life and career out of anyone I've ever seen in the NBA. Bowen is a Christian who has never taken his position for granted and plays like we all do on the court: aggressive (how else do you play at 6'7" and 200 pounds?). So really, I can't see why grudges are held for so long whether in basketball OR in anything.
That's all I have to say
Good Luck to the Suns. I really hope there is a game 6 myself, this is good basketball.
wael - scottsdale / az
I still hoping they will make it ,,, i'm counting on the players and the players only ,,,Go suns Go,,,
Nagle family - England
Steve Nash should be a Sir. Come on you sons. Amare is an inspiration. Purple, orange, white army!
m - unknown
spurs suck and the suns are going to win in game 7 with bell and diaw leading the way.
mark 7 - "KJ" forever - Czech republic
After game 3 i didnt believe in nothing a i guessed that its all over. But game 4 was a real blockbuster - hopes are still alive. In our country we say: "The hope dies as the last". So, common, let´s believe. It´s pla off time and anythig can happen. As it says banner on the suns.com in these days: "DO YOU BELIEVE?" ... let me tell you something: "I DO BELIEVE". We must believe. Guys, go outthere, show some heart and pride a bring the series back to Phoenix !!!! GO SUNS !!!!
Nick Nasty - Gilbert, AZ
I think that if the suns come out with the intensity that they did last game then they could definitely take this series. Not just game 5 but the whole series. I'm so glad that we are starting to own up to the Spurs dirty playing by giving them a taste of their own medicine. When Raja flopped and Parker got all ticked I hope he felt what we always feel. And it's about time the Shaq Attack came out!!! The first 3 games his age was showing, and he couldn't throw it down like he used to. Game 4 he throws down and the crowd and team gets a huge boost! That's exactly what I'm talking about. With a higher level of intensity from our highly skilled players the Spurs won't be able to stop us. Duncan, Ginoboli, and Parker need to stop crying about EVERY Frikin call and just play the game! Let's go Suns! You are too good to let the Spurs beat you once again! We believe! Do you? Suns win it all!!!! Let's make history!
darwing espinoza - nicaragua
creo y confio en los suns soy de nicagua y mi my family yo fan the suns son un gran equipo y merecen estar en la final y ser campion con ayuda de dios les deceo mucha suerte att: darwing jhosua de nicaragua
Narula - Toronto
Come on suns!!! Show them what you got. I know you can do this you haven't been the top team in the Western Conference for nothing!!!
Elmer - Canada
Go Suns Go! You can do it. We believe in your talents. Bury them in a deep hole from the start of the game to finish. Bring home the bacon.
soner ongur - istanbul-turkey
a think too suns will win. go sun suns go suns go suns
Skyimager - Mesa AZ
If the Suns can play with the focus and intensity that they did on Sunday, they just might pull out a win. They have to play their game, by balancing ball movement, inside and outside shots and playing defence. What concerns me is if we get in foul trouble early, then it could be a long night and a quiet flight home. San Antonio is a tough team and they want to win on their court, So the Suns have to take to the Spurs and kick some ass.
Enough said.. GO SUNS!!!!!!!!
Cilranus - Freetown, Sierrra Leone
Victory over the spurs for suns
mean a lot to me. I STILL BELIEVE.
we can do this thing
Steven - Tempe
All very good points. I could not agree more with the comments saying throw strawberry at parker. Have him pick up some cheap fouls to keep parker out of the game. Watch out San Antonio. If the Suns win game five, which i think they can, we are back in Phoenix for game six. I like the odds of the Suns winning that. This means a game seven lies ahead and the Suns will be on a 3 game win streak, having beat San Antonio on their home court. Of course the Suns have to win tonight... One game at a time guys
Riad - Montreal
They need to keep coming out strong like they did in game 1,2 and 4 and finish off strong and keep the tempo on their side, the suns are unstopable when they establish a good rythm and thats what they need to do early on in the game and keep that rythm flowing...GO SUNS..MAKE HISTORY DONT BE HISTORY!!
Pat - Chino Valley
We believe. Just take game 5 then 6 then 7!
We know you can do it and you all deserve it.
Go Suns
Joshua Huber - Bunker Hill IL
the suns will become the first team to come back from a 3 to 0 defeciet in a series
tj - waddell
i think that we will win this series with our physical and mental toughness we can dominate those freaking loser spurs GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dor - Phoenix
Your observation is just what is truly happening, John from Surprise... But let's give them the benefit of the doubt... maybe we'll pull this one and maybe not... But I will be very glad to see if we do... Go Suns... it seems it's not over yet in the minds of those who truly believe in you....
Ian Uy - Philippines(Cebu)
yah.. i still believe that suns could win all the way and beat the dirty spurs...haha Go SUNS
MD - Zlin, Czech republic
We should win Game 5. Fans will help you get Game 6. And Game 7 on our Coach. So it is very easy to step to Champion's title. Let's just make it.
Rochelle - Litchfield Park, AZ
Ok... if there was one team in the NBA who could break that statistic it would be the Phoenix Suns. One game at time and we will win! The only thing is that the Spurs are going to come out like ragging bulls because they got embarrassed on Sunday and they are going to want to beat us on their home floor. We definitely have to meet their intensity. We just need our luck to good our way. It seems like the Suns always have bad luck and the tables need to turn. WE ARE GOING TO WIN THIS YEAR!
GO SUNS!! BEAT THE SPURS!! THE SUN HAS RISEN!! YAHOOO!!
Abram - toronto
Let's go guys. we've been waiting a long time for this. We have all the pieces and all we need to do is to put it together. Some dreams fade over time, but not this one. I'm still bleeding orange.
Miller - Wisconsin
I believe.
steven snyder - lake forest
its gonna take heart and will power
Jason - PHX
The Sun, the moon and the stars have aligned in the favor of the Suns.
DOR - Phoenix
To Spurs Fan, you have a point... It's the fans that make the grudges, I believe and possibly not the Suns players themselves.. They have to go with the flow you know... for the fan's sake... Anyway, thanks for believing in the Suns... Yes, don't we all wish there's a game 7 to this match??? Whoever wins, they deserve the win... They are the ones that work harder and ergo, they should win....
karen !! - Pto. Natales / chile
good luck suns
let's make history ok!!
and GO SUNS GO
and hey steve !! you're the best ok !
bai
Ralph - California
STAT needs to make more points and bell just needs to keep on playing great...
GO SUNS...scorch those Spurs
Jonny Converse - Phoenix
I think the quote from the last article is what we've all got to keep in mind, "hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies...- andy duphrane, shawshank redemption. We've all got to hope that we can get back into this series, one game at a time. Diaw, Barbosa, and Bell are the keys to a win. Amare and Nash will put up big numbers because they didn't last game, but with Diaw, Bell and Barbosa playing like they did, we've got a chance.
rich - new jersey
I think the suns will beat the spurs. Play like you played in Game 4, guys! Don't let Ginobili or Parker finish in the paint. Don't let them get easy points and stay out of foul trouble. Do what you do, guys. We all count on the suns.
Good luck, Phoenix!
Bryan - Vancouver
Play D and no foul troubles!!!!
sy tate - louisiana
suns are gonna win cause of shaq diaw stoudimire and nash all know how to beat the spurs and they are gonna go beast mode on them also sorry hill diaw is better guarding parker than u
yob - manila philliphines
i truly believe in you guys!
beat the spurs
anonymous - UT
Go Suns!! We did not come this far to be beaten by the lousy Spurs. I hate the Spurs almost as much as I love the Suns, and I know we can beat them. Let's show the world just which team can make NBA history!!
LaRae - Glendale
I've been cheering for the Suns since day one way back in prehistoric times. It's time for all of us die hards to hear "Suns win! Suns win!" all the way to the Championship! GO SUNS!!!
joshua - philippines
game 4 was awesome! that is how you play a game!
Play like that in the rest of the series and the suns will make history
Guys, we're gonna witness history in the making!
GO GO GO Suns!
osuredssuns - columbus
i think suns goin 2 win cuz these 5 ppl nash,barbosa,stoudimire,shaq,hill,and this could be las game of season so there be playing hard and there guna be playing aggresive and there guna be playing hard deefense +score points the score is guna be 113 to 96 go suns
Spur Hater -
Oh man, I think it is really weird that some Spur fans have nothing better to do than get on a Phoenix Suns blog, and trash it. I don't know about other people on this blog, but I would rather go around getting fired up about my team. This may sound really hypocritical, because I am trashing Spur fans, but I couldn’t help but mention the pathetic- ness of what they are doing. They’ll see who’s laughing when we win game 5.
Liliana - Mesa,AZ
I KNOW THE SUNS CAN WIN THIS GAME!!!
I BLEED PURPLE & ORANGE!!!
GO SUNS!!! GO SUNS!!! GO SUNS!!!
Corbin - AZ
I too think that the suns can win if we play like we did in game 4 then i think they still have a chance.
Go Suns "We Believe"
Michael - Provo, UT
The Suns players are fired up, add that with the fact that they are playing with nothing to lose (besides this round) anything can happen. Steve Nash WILL retire with a ring!!!
curry - somewhere
I love the suns. I think they can pull this off. They just have to play defence! Diaw and Shaq will be the key to this game and the series for the suns.
go suns - boo spurs
I was watching ESPN and someone said,"The Spurs will win game 5." I disagree. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwhat we need to do is this-put diaw on parker,bell on ginobli,nash on bowen, shaq on duncan and stat on oderto,get diaw involved,get barbosa going, and we would win the game
Todachine family - ARIZONA
LET'S GO SUNS!!!!
WE KNOW YOU CAN DO IT!!!LIGHTEN UP THE FIRE!!! AND LET THE GAME BEGIN!!! LETS MAKE HISORY AND BEAT THE SPURS!!! YOU'VE GOT THE FANS, YOU GOT THE HEART, YOU GOT THE SKILLS, AND YOU GOT GAME...SO LETS SHOW THESE SPURS WHAT YOU ARE MADE OF...lETS WIN US A CHAMPIONSHIP.
Denise - MD
I do believe! I do believe!!! Go SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!
glenn - phillipines
go shaq beat the spurs.i still believe suns can do it
peggy - China
I still believe we will got it!
emmo - hermosillo, sonora, mexico
GO SUNS!!!!!
SPURS WHAT???
COME ON!! GO PHX!!!
-
the suns will make history belive that.
Chris - Portland
Go Suns!!!!
jr - phoenix, AZ
right now im watchin the 5th game and im biting my nails!!! im so scared but i still think that the suns can bounce back
BJ ROA - Philippines
okey got it.. as for now, we'l just see.. the suns are up 82-81 under 3mins. remaining.. we'l just see
DOR - Phoenix
It's okay guys... At least the agony is finally over... But the Suns did their best... They did until the end of the game... Forget about the TOs and the missed free throws (can you imagine if we got all those points, the Spurs would surely have a hard time in game 6... just wishful thinking)... Anyway, the Suns deserve to be praised even with this loss... They did their best esp Diaw (don't care if he had that TO in the 4th quarter). He is truly one of Phoenix's MVPs right now.... We love you still Suns!!!
Dissapointed - AZ
I cannot beleive NASH the 3 time MVP turned the ball over 3 times in a row with the game on the line. He also missed too many shots and played horribly the last 2 games. Had it not been for Diaw the Suns would have lost the game on Sunday too. The hack a Shaq is just the worst rule of all time, and needs to be dealt with by the league. I did not like the trade for Shaq and think it was a poor decision on Kerr's part to disassemble a team right before the playoffs. Stat did not play with the intensity I have seen him play with in the past either. Officating with phantom foul calling was disgraceful too. The league should take a look at this game tape and then reprimand those referees for that game. Well I hope you guys enjoy the summer off cause you earned it.
DOR - Phoenix
I can not agree more, Ms/Mr Disappointed from AZ... The Hack-a-Shaq is just too plain dirty for all the fans to see. This is supposed to be a display of real basketball skills and talents and not hacking someone whom they obviously know is not too good in free throws, (thankfully SHAQ was able to put in almost half of those throws)..... Is this all the SPURS know to outwin the SUNS?? It's pathetic... The league should really look into this and pass a law to stop this from happening again in the future... No player should be put in this kind of situation... it's just plain too LAME...
TrackBack Link